A Guide to Renting Office Space in
Nairobi, Kenya

Geography

Situated in the south-central part of Kenya, Nairobi is positioned at a high altitude on the Nairobi River, granting it a pleasant, temperate climate. Surrounded by sprawling plains, cliffs, and forests, the geography of Nairobi is diverse and inviting for both residents and tourists alike.

Its central location within the country makes it a strategic point for trade and travel, with easy connections to Kenya's coastal cities, the Eastern African region, and beyond.

Getting There & Around

Nairobi is highly accessible from local and international destinations, primarily through the Jomo Kenyatta International Airport, which is East Africa's busiest airport. Direct flights are available from major cities across the world, making it a global entry point for tourists and business travellers. For regional travel, Wilson Airport provides connections to smaller towns and tourist attractions within Kenya. Road networks extending from Nairobi are well-developed, linking it with the pivotal Mombasa port and other regions. Modern rail transport, including the recently developed Standard Gauge Railway (SGR), offers a swift and scenic journey to Mombasa and has greatly enhanced domestic travel and goods shipping.

Local Economy

Nairobi's economy is one of the most dynamic in the region, driven by a diverse array of sectors. The city is the financial and business heart of Kenya, with numerous multinational corporations, banks, and international organizations holding their African headquarters here. The city thrives on telecommunications, banking, and tourism, underscored by a burgeoning technology sector, earning it the nickname "Silicon Savannah." Agriculture also plays a role, emphasizing Kenya's export-driven focus on tea and coffee. Nairobi's real estate market is growing rapidly, fueled by increasing demand for both commercial and residential properties.

Office Space & Districts

Nairobi's office space market is centred in several key business districts:

Westlands: Known for its modern skyscrapers, Westlands is a major commercial hub, housing many embassies, international companies, and upscale retail outlets. It offers a range of contemporary office spaces with modern amenities.

Upper Hill: Once a residential neighbourhood, Upper Hill has transformed into a thriving business district with numerous high-rise office buildings, attracting banks, financial institutions, and multinational corporations.

Kilimani: A diverse neighbourhood offering a mix of residential and commercial developments. Kilimani is popular with NGOs, tech companies, and startups, providing a variety of office spaces from co-working environments to traditional office settings.

Nairobi Central Business District (CBD): The heart of the city, the CBD hosts government offices, major banks, and businesses in various sectors. It offers a range of office spaces, from historic buildings to modern structures.

Karen and Gigiri: These suburban areas are preferred by embassies, international organizations, and NGOs, offering serene environments and spacious office setups.

In Nairobi, the office space market ranges from high-end, modern facilities in business districts to more affordable options in suburban areas. The market caters to a broad spectrum of business needs, reflecting Nairobi's status as a leading African business hub.